The micropalaeontology and palynology of a putative lacustrine clay at Spittalmyre Farm, Montrose [1:50k sheet 57 (E) Montrose]

The two samples proved to be entirely barren of calcareous faunas, indicating probable decalcification. Diatoms are present throughout and are relatively abundant in sample 1, where a freshwater (lacustrine) environment of late Quaternary age is indicated. The diatoms indicate shallow, slightly alkaline water. Sample 2 yielded poorly-preserved diatoms, which are consistent with freshwater conditions. Both samples produced abundant, typically British interglacial, pollen and spores. Marine forms are absent and hence a lacustrine setting is postulated. Dryopteris spores dominate both samples, and arboreal (tree)/shrub and herb pollen is present in significantly lower proportions. These associations are indicative of a shallow lake, fringed by dense stands of pteridophytes (ferns and mosses). Alternatively, the main lake or the fringes, were swampy. The palynofloras are typical of the Flandrian Stage, possibly the Atlantic or Sub-Boreal periods.